High Nitrates Detected in Valentine Water

The City of Valentine is issuing an important drinking water notice. Nitrate was measured at an average concentration of 11 milligrams per liter in two samples collected from Well 501 on August 26 and September 9, 2026. This exceeds the nitrate

maximum contaminant level of 10 milligrams per liter.

Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water. However, nitrate at this level is a con

cern for infants because they cannot process nitrate in the same way older children and adults can. Anyone with specific health concerns may want to consult a physician.

Do NOT allow infants, pregnant women, or nursing mothers to drink the water.  Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome. Symptoms in infants can develop rapidly.

Water, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Alternate water, such as bottled water or filtered water should be used.

Do not boil the water. Boiling, freezing, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level.

The two samples were collected from Well 501, one of the City's five active wells. Water in the City's distribution system and storage reservoir is a mixture of water from the wells that are in service, rather than water from Well 501 alone. The most

recent nitrate test results for the City's other four active wells were below the nitrate level. The City has removed Well 501 from service, and it will remain offline while the City continues testing and works with the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment to return the system to compliance.

The City will provide alternate drinking water upon request to households with infants younger than six months, pregnant women, or nursing mothers. Call City Hall at 402-376-2323 to make arrangements. For more information, contact City Manager

Shane Siewert at City Hall at 402-376-2323.